Monmouth County Encourages Residents to Get Flu Vaccine

FREEHOLD, NJ – In recognition of National Influenza Vaccination Week, Monmouth County is encouraging residents to get their flu vaccines in time for the holiday season to protect themselves, their loved ones and the public.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) established National Influenza Vaccination Week in 2005 to encourage flu vaccination through the holiday season and into the new year. The flu is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. The CDC recommends that everyone six months and older be vaccinated against the flu annually.

“This week serves as an important reminder to make every effort to prevent illness during the holiday season,” said Freeholder Patrick Impreveduto, liaison to the Monmouth County Health Department. “We recommend that all residents, who have not yet received a flu shot, do so now either through their physician, a local pharmacy or at a clinic.”

Influenza symptoms may include cough, sore throat, headache, muscle pain, chills and fatigue. A fever may or may not be a symptom of the flu. If, however, you have symptoms of flu and are in a high risk group, are very sick or worried about your illness, contact your health care provider. For information about high risk groups, visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov.

In addition to getting vaccinated, residents are reminded to protect others by remembering to cover your cough, wash your hands frequently and stay home if you are ill.

For additional information, call the Monmouth County Health Department at 732-431-7456, or visit www.visitmonmouth.com.